Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Brother XL 5130 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother XL 5130 review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since the Brother XL 5130 has been discontinued, we have added similar alternatives such as
On a recent foray through our favorite refurbished sewing machine center, we stumbled upon a Brother XL 5130. It had been left by a customer for consignment sale. Although the machine wasn’t brand new, there was no doubt that it was in good working condition. The only thing we noticed wrong with it was the work table seemed to be nowhere in sight.
We learned that this particular sewing machine is to be sold ‘as is’, because it turns out that none of the original accessories were included. We don’t know the owner’s story. Perhaps the machine was inherited or left behind when a tenant moved and the individual who dropped it off was just trying to give it a good home rather than toss it out.
Brother XL 5130 Overview
Brother XL 5130 is a beginner-friendly mechanical sewing machine with 15 inbuilt stitches, a 1-step buttonhole, and a free arm, among many other features. It has an onboard thread cutter along with adjustable stitch length and width. It also comes with a notched seam guide attached on the needle plate. The device is commendably sturdy and is perfect for household usage and hobbyists' experiments.
Brother XL 5130 has been discontinued. We recommend trying out other alternatives that we have listed in this post.
Before we even began our review of the Brother XL 5130, we were impressed by the warm color, the easy to decipher stitch selection and clearly marked function buttons.
What are the features on Brother XL 5130?
Aside from the features that caught our eye when we first saw this machine – carrying handle, stitch chart on the front of the machine and oversized reverse stitch lever, we learned that the Brother XL 5130 is a basic sewing machine with very few of the bells and whistles that are available on many sewing machines produced for home use today.
We were able to locate an owner’s manual for the Brother XL 5130 through a brief search of the Brother International website.
For those for whom English is a second language, the owner’s manual is written to include detailed instructions in three different languages: English, Spanish and French.
The features listed for this sewing machine include:
- 15 built in straight and zigzag stitches
- a notched seam guide etched on the needle plate
- an on board thread cutter; adjustable stitch length and width
- a 1 step buttonhole maker
- a functional free arm to facilitate sewing collars, cuffs, pants hems and other small, intricate sewing projects
As stated above, the removable work table was not included with this machine.
Working on the Brother XL 5130
Even though there was no owner’s manual to guide us through the threading and bobbin winding steps, following the on board diagrams was so easy, the manual was not necessary.
Winding the bobbin is simplified by an on board diagram that illustrates the bobbin winding process in precise detail. The front loading bobbin housing is located beneath the needle plate.
With the absence of the detachable work table, inserting the bobbin is truly a piece of cake. Just open the drop down door and pop it in. Threading the machine is just as easy.
The user is guided through the threading process with a series of numbered diagrams that are incredibly easy to follow.
Selecting stitches, setting the tension, adjusting stitch length and width and executing them with expert precision was just as easy.
The easy to understand numbered dials and clearly identifiable icons made these tasks so easy we are convinced that a child could master them with very little guidance or adult supervision.
We are equally certain that someone who has been sewing for many years would not be bored with the ease of operating the Brother XL 5130. The manual tension adjustment dial is located directly above the needle. The numbers are large and easy to read from any angle. The ease in finding the correct tension was incredible. After just one educated guess, we were able to adjust the tension to the perfect setting.
For this review, we tested several nearly all of the 15 utility and decorative stitches. To our pleasant surprise, executing each and every one of them was as easy as turning the dial to the stitch number we wanted. All of the stitches we tested were sharp, clear and even. We estimate that the Brother XL 5130 sews about 1,000 stitches per minute, which is pretty much standard for machines of this type.
The foot pedal has a light touch, and on board light provides just the right amount of illumination so that shadows and glare are minimized to the point where they are not at all noticeable.
The machine should be covered when not in use to protect it from environmental dust and debris.
Since this one does not come with a dust cover of any kind, we recommend that anyone who purchases it invest in an inexpensive plastic dust cover or make a customized cover or carrying case with pockets for sewing notions such as scissors, buttons, hem tape, tape measure, pin cushion, needles, tailors’ chalk, hem gage, and any other items that might come in handy.
Which fabrics work on the Brother XL 5130?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery |
What accessories does the Brother XL 5130 come with?
Although the accessories were not available here, a review of the owner’s manual revealed that the original accessories for this sewing machine included:
- five snap on presser feet
- zigzag foot
- buttonhole foot
- zipper foot
- button sewing foot
- quilting foot
- a screwdriver
- seam ripper
- lint brush
- thread spindle
- extra needles
- a twin needle
- a darning plate for machines that are not equipped with drop feed dogs
How to maintain the Brother XL 5130?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Brother XL 5130 review
Even though the machine we reviewed was in our opinion a bit incomplete because the work table was missing, we found the Brother XL 5130 to be a good basic sewing machine that is not only an excellent choice for mending and alterations, but a good machine for beginners.
We feel that any child older than nine or ten years of age would be able to master this sewing machine with ease. It is uncomplicated, durable enough to withstand use by someone who is unfamiliar with the workings of a sewing machine and easy to care for.
We aren’t certain who will purchase the machine we reviewed. Whoever buys it will no doubt be required to also invest in accessories and a cover. While reviewing, we discovered through an internet search we learned that the Brother XL 5130 has been discontinued by the manufacturer. However, we discovered that used machines identical to this one with the work table, owner’s manual and all of the standard accessories intact costs $250 on amazon.com.
We already shared our opinion that this machine is so basic a child could easily learn how to sew on it. At this juncture, we would like to add that the Brother XL 5130 is not only good for the seasoned home sewer to use for alterations and mending. It is also an ideal choice for the intermediate home sewer who simply wants a reliable sewing machine on which to make clothes and accessories for themselves, gift items for their family and friends, and home décor items to add a personal touch to their surroundings.
In addition, we feel that the Brother XL 5130 is an excellent option for an individual who has recently retired and now has time to devote to once favorite pastimes that got put on the back burner while building careers and raising families. College students could also benefit from this sewing machine. It is lightweight and easily transported from home to campus, making it quite possibly one of the most economical ways to stay up-to-date with the latest trends without breaking the bank.
It could also be an unexpected source of income. Imagine whipping up some eye catching, easy to make accessory to wear on campus, to a sporting event or to an end of semester party and having your friends and classmates offer to pay you to make something just like it for them. Regardless of an individual’s skill level, station in life, age or circumstances, the Brother XL 5130 is a good deal and a great machine for learning to sew, retaining skills already learned or for sewing on the go.
After thorough reviewing, we recommend the Brother XL 5130 for anyone who is in the market for a basic sewing machine. Although its production has been discontinued by the manufacturer, this machine is still new enough to be available at certain authorized Brother retailers who have not yet sold off all of their inventory and on the web through sites such as Amazon.com.
Whether used or brand new and still in the carton, the Brother XL 5130 is a sewing machine worth investigating. We are convinced that it would be a welcome addition to any personal inventory of home sewing machines, whether it finds a niche in a busy sewing room, in the corner of a bedroom, or on tucked away on a desk in a dorm.
Brother XL 5130 Review
Summary
The Brother XL 5130 is a computerized sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 60 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has 7 styles of one-step buttonholes, a needle threader, an automatic thread cutter, and a free arm.
The XL 5130 also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as the push-button stitch selection and the large, easy-to-read LCD display. It also has a number of advanced features, such as the automatic needle up/down function and the reverse sewing button.
The XL 5130 is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for a machine with a variety of features and a great stitch quality. It is not the most affordable machine on the market, but it is a good value for the price.
Recommended Posts
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
This machine is excellent!
Is there a way to Set the Pressure on the Presser Foot. Most have a button on top or a dial on the side. I’ve looked through the online manual and have yet to find a way to adjust this machine.
Sary –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
As far as I have been able to determine, this particular machine does not have a pressure foot adjustment feature. I searched the Brother website but since it is no longer being manufactured, there is no information there.
This is a very good, older sewing machine. Very often you will find that features we have come to expect from newer machines are simply not available on many of the vintage models.
Nevertheless, I’m certain you will enjoy your machine.
Happy Stitching.
Thanks for the review, it was very helpful. I am looking at on locally on Craigslist, and seller is asking $100. Haven’t checked it out yet, so don’t know about attachments, but looks like the detachable work table is missing also. What price was the one you reviewed selling for at the sewing shop? Thanks
My mother in law bought this machine for my daughter to learn to sew on 10 years ago. It is such an easy machine to use I find it’s the one I grab most of the time even all these years later. I feel I can safely say it’s a good basic machine.
I have this sewing machine since 2003.it works great and never had any troubles using a lot all these years. It’s just yesterday it’s foot pedal/ controller has stopped working. I don’t know how to replace it keeping the cost low. Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks
Hello, Dar –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
I have had this problem on more than one occasion. My experience is that they go out every 10-15 years, depending upon how much you use the machine. My sewing machine is very old and I have been able to get a replacement foot pedal almost anywhere. I suggest that you take your Brother XL 5130 to any reputable sewing machine repair facility. They should be able to fix it within a day or two for a nominal fee.
Happy stitching.
Should say – just bought one of these for $20. Seems to be a good machine.
Own one and still use mine in 2017
We have the Brother xl 5130 that has been sitting for a number of years. After a good cleaning and oiling we find that the upper thread pulls out of the needle. We have messed with the tension to no avail. Any ideas on what the problem could be ? Thank you, Terry and Eileen
Just bought one at a garage sale for $10 today for my 8 year old grand daughter. Seems to have all the parts, and works. I’m going to take it in for a tuneup to be sure it’s all working well. Looks like I might have gotten a great deal that someone just didn’t want anymore!
I’ve had mine since Christmas of 1999 and I love this machine. I taught my daughter how to sew on this machine when she was 10. I have held on to it since it was one of my fist Christmas gifts from my husband. I have all the original parts to it as well. I have moved one to other T.O.L.’s that have all the bells and whistles, that embroider and have WIFI capability as well, but I still find myself going back to this gem for smaller projects, especially when I’m feeling nostalgic and reminisce about the time I unwrapped my Christmas gift. Overall it really is an excellent machine.
Same here today, following for answers. Thank you!
Hello i have just received this machine looks good but it is missing a needle clamp
What needle size can I use
i lost booket and i need to read about plm buttom and please u will send me letter booket thank